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What marriage means

Disclaimer: I'm 8,000 months pregnant, which means I'm extra hormonal and schmoopy. But last night, I was thinking about our marriage...

Ever since I got pregnant with Toby, my left foot has been randomly cold. It's probably bad circulation or something? At night, it feels especially freezing. Still, I always forget to put on a sock before climbing into bed. So, pretty much every night, after we read and chat in bed, and I'm half-asleep, I'll murmur to Alex, "Would you mind grabbing me a sock?" And every night, he says of course and finds a sock in his drawer (usually one of those gray business socks, if you must know). Then, while I lie there, basically passed out, and hugely pregnant, he'll put it on my foot.

Last weekend, we were visiting our friends' cabin in Connecticut, drinking lemonade in their gazebo in the woods, when the skies suddenly opened up, and rain poured down around us. Although he's never had an asthma attack before, Alex started wheezing. As we chatted in the gazebo, the toddlers playing under our feet, it got harder and harder for him to breathe, and our friend ended up rushing him to the hospital. (As they raced down the country roads, they also HIT A VULTURE. What an omen!) Finally at the hospital, the doctor stabilized Alex with oxygen and steroids and explained that it was allergy-induced asthma due to record-settingly high pollen counts. Apparently, the situation had been very serious, they had arrived at the hospital in the nick of time, and Alex had been moments away from serious trouble.

Afterward, with Alex back in my clutches, I realized that if anything had happened, the things I would miss most would not be splurgy dinners or weekend getaways, but the little things. Who would care enough to put on my sock? And so tenderly? And not find it annoying that I didn't do it myself? There's something so heartbreakingly sweet about that act. Those little things are what a marriage is all about, it brings tears to my eyes.(I told you I was schmoopy.)

That brought tears to MY eyes, too... and I'm not even pregnant. Though my husband is away for a few weeks, so I've been superschmoopy missing him. This was a lovely reminder of the little things I treasure so much about our marriage. Thank you:)

My partner and I have been really into our slippers this last year. At a certain point in the evening, one of us will turn to the other and say "Slipper clubs?" and then go and get both our slippers from the bedroom. It's my favourite and I can't believe I just admitted that online!

Oh my word, I'm tearing up reading this. It's such a lovely sentiment. The other night I woke up to nurse my 5 month old and after I put him back down, I realized I was wearing a pair of boxers that I definitely wasn't wearing a few hours before when I fell asleep. In the morning I asked my husband about it, and he told me I woke up, rolled over and asked him if he could do me a favor and get me a pair of boxers. I vaguely remember dreaming that people were staying at my house and the t-shirt I was sleeping in wouldn't be enough clothes if I were to run into one of them in the hallway.

All that to say, my sweet husband got up out of bed in the middle of the night to rummage through my dresser to find me a pair of boxers, because I asked him to. He didn't question my crazy reasoning. And you're so right. That is love. Those are the things I'll remember forever.

I'm not married, but there's this quote by Katharine Hepburn that I always think about when I think about marriage : "Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get - only with what you are expecting to give - which is everything."

After my husband and I got engaged, I moved from NYC to live with him in Ohio. Just weeks after my arrival, I needed back surgery. After surgery there was a 6-8 week recovery period where I was not to bend or twist. When Brian would come home from work he would pick up all the little things (pens, paper, the rogue cherry tomato) that I might accidentally drop throughout the day. For weeks he shaved my legs for me, and every night put these horrible compression socks on my feet. All without complaint. The whole experience really assured me that I had found a keeper.

Not pregnant but still getting verklempt! Whenever I get mad at my husband for not doing something I asked like placing the take out sushi order before I get home or hanging up my favorite black pencil skirt the wrong way for the 1,000th time I try and remember all the things he does do that I ask - like "passing" me a blanket from across the room or bringing me hot water with lemon first thing in the morning or going downstairs to turn on the light I forgot to turn off.

So happy to hear Alex was okay! I can't imagine how scary that was for you. I agree it's the little things that are most important. It took me time to learn that, but I'm so glad I have been able to grasp the true concept of love in my young adult life.

I'm not 8,000 months pregnant and that made me weepy! So beautiful and so true. I've just moved to Vancouver to be with my boyfriend and yesterday, watching him play basketball in the park, I had the most overwhelming love for him. Especially when he missed the basket - something about it was so goofy and vulnerable that it made my heart hurt. Sigh.

Such a sweet post. I'm constantly hearing about how marriage and children are a burden and am so tired of the cynicism. Thanks for reminding us what a blessing it is to have someone to put our socks on for us or bring home half of their cheesecake when they go to a work lunch (what my husband did yesterday). I really appreciate your positive perspective on life and your dedication to your family.

I recently read a book that mentioned the very same thing about when people suffer a loss of someone they love- when asked what they miss the most about that person, it's not the extraordinary moments that that they desperately want back, but rather the more mundane, every day moments.Realizing and appreciating these moments when you have them, according to the author, is a key to happiness, and even makes you more resilient to suffering a loss, should that happen.That really stuck with me and I myself have caught myself basking in things that happen every day, especially with my partner but with friends as well. This totally reminds me of that!

This is beautiful! Thank you for sharing. I have been hopelessly single and fiercely independent for three years, but I recently started dating someone special. After driving me home from our date last week, he offered to walk my dog with me. And this may sound incredibly simple, but on the walk he held my dog's leash. It warmed my heart and I let out an (internal) sigh, thinking, wow, so I don't have to do "this" (meaning pretty much everything) alone. It's nice to be able to accept someone's help.

Adorable, and also glad to hear he is OK. this is a great post to bring perspective once you've been in a relationship for a while... reminds you why you fell in love in the first place :) thanks for sharing :)

It's so true! We've had a rough 6 months for a lot of reasons, but as I always tell my husband, as long as the two of us are okay, and we are, then we can make it through anything. He's wound up having to call an ambulance in the middle of the night twice for me this year, terrifying us both, and having him sitting in the ER next to my bed, holding my hand, has been my sanity, my anchor. He is, without a doubt, the best thing that has ever happened to me, and I'm constantly wondering how I got so lucky.It really is the millions of little moments that just take your breath away.

I just was thinking about this last night! Every time I ask my husband to do something really annoying because I'm pregnant and don't feel like moving, he does it. I keep expecting him to say no, not because he's not wonderful, but because I would be annoyed with me were the positions reversed. But he always gets me that glass of water, gets up to adjust the thermostat, turns off the overhead light because I don't feel like sitting up, comes into the den just to help me get my big ol' bottom off the couch, everything. He is so patient and loving. This post is perfect!

I'm not pregnant and this made me teary! It's so true. There's a common thinking that romantic gestures are all about fancy gifts and flowers, but the truth is that it's the little things that really mean something. Those are the things that really show genuine love and care.

The cold foot thing is more likely a neuropathy, or nerve damage from the way Toby was sitting. It's a fairly common, though seldom talked about side effect of pregnancy! Usually permanent, but sometimes it gets better over time. There are medications you can take for it, but honestly if it isn't that bothersome, you're better off just asking for a sock. It's sweeter anyhow.

Poor circulation would effect toe nail and hair growth on the affected foot.

But it's so true! So sweet. I always found my husband's willingness to just help in whatever way he can to be the most surprising trait in him, or in a man in general. I remember telling him that it meant so much to me how he's always willing to help with what I need, big or small, and he said "Well I always want to because I really love you!". Aw.

Lovely, lovely. I am certainly not pregnant - DH and I are in our 60s. My second, his third - last for both. It's the little things that count...you are right. And...choosing (think about it) to ignore the annoying things that are really NOT important in favor of the lovely little things like you describe.

This is so sweet! Alex loves you very much. I'm glad he turned out to be ok. I had a dream just last night that my husband died, and I spent the rest of the dream-time crying. I held onto him very tightly when I woke up!

Aw, I love this! Totally true, and totally made me tear up. I also have bad circulation and always ask my husband to sit on my feet to keep them warm, and for socks at night. Now he usually keeps a pair in his bedside table lol!

Even though I'm not pregnant, it brought tears to my eyes. Also because I realized that after 15 years of marriage, my husband (who has lots of qualities nevertheless) would only do that for me once or twice and then get mad at me for not doing myself. Hmmm... It's making me think that we have to start being nicer to one another, as we used to be in the early years of being married. Thanks a lot for the wake-up call...I'm glad Alex is okay, asthma is serious!

This is a perfect post, Joanna! I had a little pit in my stomach when Alex was on his way to the hospital, and a little tear in my eye at the end. My husband is in the other room, teaching our three year old how to make a special cup of tea for me. And, he always brings me his wooly socks when he notices that my feet are cold. Doing these kind little services for each other and making each other laugh are such important parts of our happy marriage.

Oh, this is so sweet! I wholeheartedly agree - after 10 years of marriage the things that mean the most are the little, seemingly mundane ones. I don't think my husband knew what a back-rub addict I was when we married (my mom used to give me one every night growing up!), but even when he's tired he gives me a back-rub as I fall asleep. That's love :)

:) Dear Joanna, I have to confess something...About a year ago, for like 5 min I had doubts about moving in with my bf. That day, I read your fabulous post about you guys drinking wine by the firestairs. It was so providential and it helped me so much. I'll always be grateful for that! :) Same for this post! I am so happy that Alex is ok now. Much love! xo

I love this. I'm getting married in October and these are the kinds of things I cherish about my relationship with my fiance and look forward to cherishing in our marriage. Thank you for sharing your schmoopyness, keep it coming.

This is such a sweet post! My husband and I have been married for a little more than 5 months and dated 5 years before that. Thank you for reminding me that little things do matter so much in marriage.

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I love this. :) Thanks for sharing. I'm in a long-distance relationship... I'm in MO and he in TX. So, we'll get online and play games at the same time (because we can't find any we can both play together...that are simple because he's a gamer nerd and I...am not. :) ). I find it sweet when he stays behind on the level I'm on just in case I need help solving it. It may seem stupid to some people, but to me it's just one of those things. :)

So sweet, Joanna. I had a similar scare this week. My hubby got appendicitis and had to have an emergency appendectomy. Even though it's a pretty "routine" procedure, it was scary to see him in so much pain and not know what was going on. So glad that Alex is okay! The waiting & feeling helpless is SO agonizing!! The whole experience totally made me reflect on my marriage and what life would be like without him. We are so blessed and you're right, it definitely is the little things.

I know exactly what you mean about those sweet little moments. It's not about how much he spends on jewelry or showers you with flowers, it's those little things that make you feel special. Glad he is ok and taking good care of his uuber pregnant wife ;) A true love story.

Loved this. The little things surely do conquer all. And that goes for with children too. There are many milestones, but I always seem to remember a quick little ordinary moment as something really special.

I'm only about 4000 months pregnant, but this definitely made me teary. It's definitely the little things that meant he most, and I was reminded of this when my husband was just recently gone for 2 nights. I thought about how often he gets me water so I don't have to get out of bed and I had to put a pillow where he usually sleeps so it didn't feel so empty.

I was thinking the same thing. It's so intimate to hear about the little things in others' relationships and the goofy things you all do with your significant others than most people would never know about. I love it!

While I'm not married (yet) my beau and I have been together since we were 14 and I notice the most endearing things about him all the time. He has a way of making me laugh that no one else can and its the moments when I don't want to laugh but needed it the most that makes me love him more and more.

Awwww! Don't make ME cry too! Although there are a hundred little things my husband does too that I know I'd never find anyone else to take care of for me. It's wonderful to have a good marriage. I'll tell you that much.

I loved that you said 'schmoopy'! I LITERALLY just asked someone at work yesterday after they said 'I love you' on the phone to their husband ~ did you ever watch Seinfeld? Did you see the 'schmoopy' episode?

Men get such a bad rep in the press and I too have been so lucky with my man. He's a boyfriend at the moment, of many years standing and hopefully he'll let me upgrade him to husband soon! I love him so much and can't imagine life without him (to think I thought I was independent before I met him makes me laugh now!). Amyway, pregnant or not you are indeed one lucky girl and Alex is a lucky guy too. it's so wonderful to meet someone so amazing and know we are truly blessed. Romance isn't flowers once a week or even once in a while, it's the small things or rather those that look small but are actually huge things x

Pregnant too, and getting a little misty-eyed! This is my third pregnancy, and if I've learned anything about being pregnant, it's that you are so VULNERABLE and NEEDY! I am grateful every day for a husband who navigates my endless needs and requests with grace and kindness. Mine makes me eggs every morning that he's home so I will get my protein :)

When I was pregnant my husband would help me put my pants, socks & shoes on. Now, when I'm working out he'll randomly stop by and give me a high five. It's the little things in life and love. They can test our nerves sometimes but it seems like a lot of you ladies have lovely husbands!

I too am 8,000 months pregnant or about, and this post got to me, too. My husband does little things for me, as well - gets up to get me juice, helps me off the couch, lets me put my cold toes between his calves in bed. He may say, "You need more juice already? Did you spill it or something?", but that's all that I hear. And he's really just teasing me. It is the little things that mean the most - thanks for making us all think of those. And for the ladies (and gentleman) who haven't found the one yet, a lot of little things are done by family and friends all the time, too. Just have to stop and think about it. And then hope you're doing the same for others.

A few months ago my husband and I got bad news about his health and we were faced with some tragic outlooks (we have since learned he is going to be OK.) One night I was commuting home from work on MUNI (we live in SF), and there he was waiting in the fog and mist at my bus stop with our happy little terrier to walk home together, as he does every night. I just burst into tears at the thought of them not being there! The little things TRULY are what make a marriage.

Your post made me tear up, as well as reading the comments of your readers. It makes me all the more eager to marry my fiance next month. I hope we continue to do sweet little things for one another for the rest of our days.

This post really touched me today, Joanna. My young, fit, strong husband was diagnosed with an advanced, aggressive cancer one month ago. He's lost all his muscle and energy as he fights for his life. I miss so much about our life. One of the things I miss the most is something I'd never noticed before. Every morning, when we're both waking up, he used to roll over and wrap an arm around me. I miss that so much.

This is such a beautiful visual...I'm teary eyed! If I ever find a guy who meets me at the bus stop to walk me home, I'll be the happiest girl in the world! (so glad that your husband is going to be ok)

This is lovely, beautiful and so so moving. I'm feeling rather blubbery... you and Alex have such a beautiful marriage. What a wonderful gift that is to give each other and to give to your kids! SO glad to hear that Alex is doing ok.

Thank you for that! I needed this kind of a reminder. I'm in the middle of cutting back on breastfeeding and my hormones are making me crazy, really crazy. I will try my hardest to remember this story so I don't yell at my husband for the dumbest things anymore. Thank you! I need this!

So happy he's alright.Lovely post.I fell asleep in a big favourite chair the other afternoon and when I woke up there was a warm quilt over me. You guessed it... my husband. They are wonderful sometimes, aren't they?

I forget to take my gummy prenatal vitamins quite often. My husband, who was on the verge of sleep or had just fallen asleep, will get out of bed to go get them for me and then practically put them in my mouth. I understand.

I am almost 34 and my husband and I have been trying to get pregnant for two years. I was on clomid two months ago and had what my doctor's thought were ruptured cysts. It was actually a ruptured appendix. I lived with it for a week before having emergency surgery and ending up in an ICU for a week. They were unable to close my abdomen for 5 days and I had multiple surgeries. I don't remember anything during this week. I woke up a week later and spent the next two months recovering. All I can think about is my poor husband having to live through the ordeal without me. When I woke up after a week and spent an additional week in the hospital all I wanted was to be sitting on my couch, with my husband and two French bulldogs, watching our favorite shows. It really is the little things.

I'd say schmoopy after that close call is more than ok. oh thank God he's ok. That is very very sweet. You know...we've been having a hard time with our marriage since the arrival of the second. And of course it's not her fault it's just the juggle got tougher. But reading your story made me think about my hubby in a different way and think about our marriage in a different way. Thank you.

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Okay well this just made me tear up. In any relationship whether married or not it's always the little things that matter the most. I'm now 365 days away from my wedding date and this post even made me look forward to it even more (even though I already live with my fiance)...just something about it...

Please enjoy the hugeness of your pregnancy... I delivered my beautiful (healthy) baby boy, Mitchell, 9 weeks early this January and long for the day when I will be teetering around our home with swollen ankles and a sore back, meaning I've made it to full term.

Thank you for sharing this poignant reflection. I'll never forget the way I felt when I leaned out of the shower one evening, stretching to reach my towel that I'd left on the doorw, only to find my husband had moved it to the hook by the shower so that I wouldn't have to shiver on the cold floor. I never mentioned it to him but that small gesture stopped me in my tracks.

I'm glad Alex is okay! That must have book scary! Every night my husband heats up our dinner (we both work so we eat a lot of pre-cooked freezer meals) and we eat our dinner off of the same plate, sitting on the couch. If something happened I wouldn't know what to do with a whole plate!

What a sweet story. (And seriously, Joanna, your idea of schmoopy is still totally eloquent and relate-able and all-around lovely. Mine usually involves lots of nose-blowing into soggy shirt sleeves. Thank you for sharing and so glad your husband is okay!

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I am not married. But I find the one already. What it made me relize he was the one?We were datting for 5 months, I was living in Dublin (where he is form; I am from Spain) and I got very sick (My family was in Madrid). I thought I was gonna recover soon, so during the day my friends came to my house and take care of me and in the afternoon-evening my sweet boyfriend came and tryed to make me eat something (he was working during the day). The 3rd day he decided I was going to his house until I recover. He lives with his parents (you know how common is in catholic countries in Europe), so I wasn't to sure... (I didn't want to disturb his parents). He took care of me for a week in the sweetest way he could. What surprise me more was: Even when I was very sick, with my hair dirty and my legs hairy, he looked at me if I was the most atractive person in this world :)This was one year ago. Now I am living in Madrid and soon I will move back to Dublin and we will find an apartment to move in together. Cannot wait!

I'm not even pregnant, nor have I ever been, but I am in love. And this made me tear up just like the rest of the commenters :) I need to send this to my partner so that he can know (in more eloquent terms than my own) how much I appreciate those little things.

Indian marriages are known for their many rituals. In fact, the beauty of Indian weddings comes forth in the numerous traditions that are associated with the special celebration. Marriages being the most important day in one's life, mehndi has become an ornament for the soon to be brides. Infact one whole ceremony dedicated to its celebration popularly known as "Mehndi Ki Raat".Indian marriages are incomplete without dance, music and lots of laughter.

It is a common belief that the darker the color the mehndi leaves on the hands on a bride, the more will she be loved by her husband and mother-in-law. However, the significance of applying mehndi during weddings is not restricted just to sentiments and beliefs. Although these beliefs make the application of mehndi a much anticipated and charming tradition, the actual reason is of much deeper significance.

I think about this stuff all the time. My husband and I have been married for 21 years this August. We got married young and I have honestly loved every moment of being together (even when we are both pains in the ass).

The funny thing is I knew this at 19. I knew that snuggling with him, him teasing me about stuff, the day to day stuff would be my favorite part and it still is.

Once the prospective bride and groom is selected by the families and their kundlis matched to make sure that they have a happy married life , the big Indian wedding starts unfurling with its numerous unique culture. Marriage will happen to everyone sooner or later. May be you are busy pubbing and clubbing today but for a happy and secure tomorrow marriage is the only way out. Indian Marriages are not only about the couple, they involve the whole family. The Mehndi night is a festive night in the girl's family where professional Mehndi artists draw intricate designs in henna on the hands of the bride and other female members. During the Sangeet, professional entertainers are brought to regale the guests.

The individuals not only marry each other but tie an everlasting bond with each other's family. The Shagun is exchanged by the prospective families which consist of numerous gifts to the soon to be the wed couples. The wedding rituals start with the Haldi ceremony that is done to purify and ready the bride and groom for their union. Haldi and oil is poured over their body and hair by the family members after which they are forbidden to leave their house.

When any one's marriage is settled, an auspicious day is fixed for the wedding. On the appointed day the bridegroom is taken in a grand procession to the bride's house. He is generally clad in white silk with saffron spots on it. He wears a crown of flowers on his head. He is seated on a fine mare and is joined by a large number of men carrying different sorts of articles of pomp and grandeur. He is accompanied by his relatives and friends who are attired in their best clothes. The children wear very gaudy dresses. The procession is generally led by a band. At intervals fire-works are let off.

When the matrimony procession reaches the bride's house, shouts of welcome in different forms rend the air. The Swaagat is the ritual to welcome the groom and his entourage by the bride's family. The kith and kin of the bride come out to receive the bride-groom and his party and conduct them to a hall richly decorated and illuminated for the occasion. The bride watches the arrival from one window of the house, careful not to gaze upon his face and then comes out to welcome him. The guests and visitors take their seats in the same hall where they are served with tea and sweets. Some who are accustomed to smoke are offered hookas. Afterwards they are led to the dining hall where sweets, pudding, puries and other dainties are lavishly served to them.

During Vidai, the bride's brother is entrusted with couple's care. The Baraat leaves for the groom’s house are announced with drum beats and is welcomed by the women of the family. The wedding reception is the party thrown by the groom's family to announce the wedding and this usually takes place a day after the wedding.

Marriage involves all-the families! And the best of all, it Creates Generations! So think guys and hail this medium of happily remaining in a long term relationship.

The Sindhi wedding is presided over by a special priest known as "Mehraj", specialising in matchmaking and a Guryanni , who presents the horoscopes of eligible boys and girls to those for a match.

Pre Wedding Rituals

Once the prospective bride and groom is selected by the families and their kundlis match to make sure that they have a happy married life, the big Sindhi wedding starts unfurling with its numerous unique rituals.

Janya or the sacred thread ceremony starts with the groom donning the sacred yellow thread while the Mehraj whispers Guru Mantra in his ears. Though this ceremony ritualistically should be performed during adolescence , most Sindhi's now prefer to do this day or two considered incomplete. After this comes the two step engagement ritual called Kachchi Misri and Pakki Misri.

Kachchi Mishri

Kachchi Misri is the informal engagement between the bride and the groom , where they are given coconuts and misri that signifies their acceptance into each other's families. The shagun is exchanged by the prospective families which usually consist of numerous gifts (Shagun) to the soon wed couples. Additionally the bride family sends 5kg of sweets, five coconuts , a basket of fruit and a small token amount of money to the boy's family. The groom's sister covers the bride's head with a red duppata and feeds her suji sheera , followed by the other relatives.

Pakki Mishri

Pakki Mishri is the formal engagement ceremony where the rings are exchanged in the presence of the priest , either in a temple or at home. The groom's family gifts the bride , clothes, cosmetics and jewellery , with which she is then adorned by the groom's sister and sisters-in-law. Similarly the bride's family gifts a clay pot of misri. This is followed by a Varmala ritual where the bride and groom exchange garlands while the families finalise the verbal promise of their marriage or shaadi.

The engagement is followed by Berena, performed ten days before the marriage, where is satsang is dedicated to Jhulelal, Sindhi God. Dev Bithani refers to the installation of chakki (stome grinder) in the homes of both the bride and the groom, while a Brahmin priest performs the ritual. After this ceremony, the couple is not encouraged to leave their homes and Ainars (marriage guards ) are appointed for them. During Lada , the groom's family invites the women in their neighbourhood for a musical night where they all sing traditional songs accompanied by dholak beats.

Punjab is the state of festiveness. It is said that punjabis can groove to the beats of dhol even if there is no occasion. As such, when there is a shaadi in the house, it given them a reason to sing and dance. In Punjab, there are different genres of songs when it comes to marriage songs. There are categories divided on the basis of moods and situations.Some of the most popular categories include:

Gharouli de Geet: These are happy songs that are sung when the pitcher is filled for bride/bridegroom's bath on the day of the wedding.

Sehra: As the Hindu priest ties the sehra (flower veil) on the forehead of the groom while chanting sacred mantras, the close family members sing sehra songs to pep up the environment.

Suhag: A fairly popular category of wedding songs, the suhag songs are sung by the bride herself as she praises her of her life. Some of these wedding songs also reveal her anticipation of the approaching life in her husband's home. In some households, bride friends and cousins also sing these songs on her behalf.

Jaggo: Jaggo songs are sung a night prior to the wedding. These songs are sung as a celebrative way to invite the neighbours to the wedding.

South Indian Melodies

Laali: These are songs of praise for the bride and the groom who are seated on a swing in a ceremonial manner and are rocked back and forth. The back and fro motion of the swing in the ritual signifies the waves in the sea of life while the chains represent the eternal karmic link with god. Their movement on the swing depicts that the couple is together in body and mind that they would together cross the ocean of life.

Nalangu: During this ritual, the new bride sings and calls her husband to spend time with her. These songs fill the atmosphere with a sense of merriment. The time signifies the breaking of ice between the bride and the groom as there are several other playful activities that take place, subsequently. While family members break papads on the couple's heads toward off evil, the bride anoints husband's body with sandalwood and sings to him. The female relatives poke fun at the couple and the in-laws while singing songs.

Adding a Zing of Culture

A part from the pre-wedding ceremonies that are replete with the sounds of traditional wedding tunes and lyrics, these days marriages are also witnessing a sort of rebound that seem incomplete without these rhythms and libretto. Live performances usually have the popular singers belting out hit numbers some originals, some legendary wedding songs that set the mood for the evening and get the guests tapping to these numbers. Traditional wedding songs are those symphonies that have bouts of emotions hidden behind, that bring people together to celebrate and have fun and that which any Indian marriage is not complete without.

Hi My name is 'Bruno Rico' just want to share my experience with the world on how i got my love back and saved my marriage... I was married for 7years with 2kids and we lived happily until things started getting ugly and we had fights and arguments almost every time... it got worse at a point that she filed for divorce... I tried my best to make her change her mind & stay with me cause i loved her with all my heart and didn't want to loose her but everything just didn't work out... she moved out of the house and still went ahead to file for divorce... I pleaded and tried everything but still nothing worked. The breakthrough came when someone introduced me to this wonderful, great spell caster who eventually helped me out... I have never been a fan of things like this but just decided to try reluctantly cause I was desperate and left with no choice... He did special prayers and used roots and herbs... Within 7 days she called me and was sorry for all the emotional trauma she had cost me, moved back to the house and we continue to live happily, the kids are happy too and we are expecting our third child. I have introduced him to a lot of couples with problems across the world and they have had good news... Just thought I should share my experience cause I strongly believe someone out there need's it... You can email him via akhidenorlovespell@gmail.com Don't give up just yet, the different between 'Ordinary' & 'Extra-Ordinary' is the 'Extra' so make extra effort to save your marriage/relationship if it's truly worth it.

You are about to start a new life.. one filled with the promise of happiness and dreams coming true..Your wedding is meant to be a momentous affair, but one that will demand a lot of planning and decision making. This wedding planner is specifically designed to provide an organised approach towards making your wedding a runaway success. By following this guide, step by step, and all your plans, we hope will run to perfection.

Setting the Wedding DateThe date is usually based on the auspicious time given by the family pandit, but it is thoughtful to make sure that it does not clash with any other event in the family, and is convenient for people to attend.

EngagementThis is the first of the formal ceremonies. Traditionally , rings and gifts are exchanged between the bride and the groom's families. Ascertain ring sizes and buy the engagement rings well in advance, so that the couple can try them out before the ceremony.

Invitation CardsInvitation cards are now available in individualistic and unique designs.*Place an order for invitations with a printer well in advance. A few extras will come handy.*Also order for informal cards for writing "thank you" notes.*It is in good order to place a small map of the venue on the invitation card.*Start mailing the invites two months in advance for outstation guests.*It is nice gesture to send invites to even those family members and friends who you know will not be able to attend the ceremony.

Legal Formalities*Register at the matrimony sites.*Inform change in address to the postal department and to all the relatives and friends.*Apply for change of maiden name in important documents, ration card, etc.

At 2 Months to the Wedding... *Do an RSVP with guests and draw up a final guest list.*Confirm all reservations.*Choose gifts for relatives and friends.*Do a hair and make-up run through.*Make a list of photographs you wish to be taken.*Make a list of the music you wish to be played.

At 2 Weeek to the marriage...*Do a final confirmation of all the reservations and service providers.* Confirm the transportation schdule.* Give the caterer the final guest count.*Make sure all attentdants have a copy of the wedding day schedule.*Do a final dress fitting with shoes, jewellery and make-up.*Pack for your honeymoon.Its a once-in-lifetime moment. Surely make it your the best.

A wedding Planning Bussiness, Vivaah explores All the element that make weddings so special different. By tracing the romentic history of weddings from colonial times to the present suggesting ways to create a signature Wedding.

Cater to All function in the wedding such as:*The Engagement*The mehendi*The Ceremony*The sangeet*The Reception

EngagementThis is the first of the formal ceremonies. Traditionally , rings and gifts are exchanged between the bride and the groom's families. Ascertain ring sizes and buy the engagement rings well in advance, so that the couple can try them out before the ceremony.

MahendiIndian marriages are known for their many rituals. In fact, the beauty of Indian weddings comes forth in the numerous traditions that are associated with the special celebration. Marriage day being the most important day in one's life. Infact one whole ceremony dedicated to its celebration popularly known as "Mehndi Ki Raat". Indian marriages are incomplete without dance, music and lots of laughter. Destination Weddings

Ceremony

The Baraat is also a wonderful part of the indian marriage. The groom with the sehra tied to hide his face sits on the horse, while his mother holds a lamp lit for the household deity. It is merry ritual when they set forth for the marriage venue along with a band of musicians playing popular tracks, with his relatives groove their way to the wedding. The Swaagat is the ritual to welcome the groom and his entourage by the bride's family. The bride watches the arrival from one window of the house , careful not to gaze upon his face and then comes out to welcome him. At the entrance the groom places his right foot on top of the bride's foot to denote his dominating strength in their future life together. In the Sindhi tradition the groom is seen as the embodiment of lord Vishnu on the wedding day. The couple is seated with a screen separating them so that they cannot see each other while his feet are washed in a bronze thaali with raw milk by the bride's brother and is known as Paon Dhulai. The couple now gets ready for the wedding ceremony and is taken to the wedding platform where the ceremony is to take place.

SangeetDecide whether it will be a small family gathering or a big event with a professional band in attendance.*Book a Mehndiwali well in advance. She/he should bring the necessary material.*List the songs and hand out the lyrics to all or you can use taped music as a back-up.*Hold practice sessions prior to the wedding, if you are so inclined.*Arrange for snacks or a caterer if the gathering is large.

ReceptionDecide whether it will be sit-down affair or a buffet.*Make the arrangements in advance and confirm with the venue manager/caterer in writing.*Specify the number of guests expected to the caterer if you do not want to pay for extra food.*Confirm arrangements a day before the event.*Set up a gift table and assign a family member to receive gifts. Maintain a list of the gifts.*Allocate space for alive band, bar and dining.*After the reception, move flower bouquets and leftover liquor to the couple's residence.

While a destination wedding is a unique alternative to the traditional wedding, it is only successful when planned by an expert. Destination weddings require considerable planning and research, so couples should look for someone they know they can trust..

the main concept of vow's is to create an Exclusive One Stop Shop for all your wedding needs, right from the invitation card to the Honeymoon Plan.it will be the first and final destination for brides and bride grooms seeking exquisite resources.

After being in relationship with my boyfriend for six years,he broke up with me,I did everything possible to bring him back but all was in vain, I wanted him back so much because of the love I have for him, I begged him with everything, I made promises but he refused. I explained my problem to someone online and she suggested that I should rather contact a spell caster that could help me cast a spell to bring him back but I am the type that never believed in spell, I had no choice than to try it, I mailed the spell caster, and he told me there was no problem that everything will be okay before three days, that my ex will return to me before three days, he cast the spell and surprisingly in the second day, it was around 4pm. My ex called me, I was so surprised, I answered the call and all he said was that he was so sorry for everything that happened, that he wanted me to return to him, that he loves me so much. I was so happy and went to him, that was how we started living together happily again. Since then, I have made promise that anybody I know that have a relationship problem, I would be of help to such person by referring him or her to the only real and powerful spell caster who helped me with my own problem. Contact him now for your relationship or marriage problems via this email ofuaspiritualtemple@gmail.com

Apply for leave work as much in advance as possible. Complete all pending tasks and divide the workload between cooperative co - worker. “This way you can get up to speed real quick when you return from your blessed – out honeymoon”

Delegate small wedding day tasks

Delegate duties in advance – get a couple of close friends to be by your side during the ceremony to calm your nerves and handle the gifts, some relatives (in rotation) to greet guests at the entrance, someone with a list of all vendor contact information.

Have a chat with your photographer

Decide the theme you want for the marriage pictures and give the photographer a list of moments you want captured.

Pack your accessories and wedding night bag

Pack a bag with all the accessories you’ll require to get dressed on the wedding day. This includes jewellery, makeup, hairpins, safety pins, undergarments. Leave this bag next to your wedding dress along with your bag of “just – in – case” items. Also, pack a small bag to carry with you to the hotel for the wedding night. This bag should have everything you’ll need. Besides lingerie, make sure to pack a change of clothes for the next morning, your cosmetics pouch and a midnight snack (since no one seems to eat at their own wedding!)

Gather Memories

Make a DVD of the days leading up to the wedding

“What I’m sure I’ll continue to find truly endearing and entertaining in the years to come is the DVD of my wedding preparation – from the sangeet practices to the makeup trails to some heartfelt moments with my family” Maybe you can include messages from your close friends and family as well.

Write out ‘Thank you’ notes

A lot of people have worked tirelessly, spent lots of money and treated you like a princess in the weeks leading up to your big day. Make some time to write personalized cards for all of them and give it to each one before the wedding ceremonies begin.

Look And Feel Your Best

Oodles of pampering

This is perhaps one of the most essential and enjoyable parts of your pre – wedding routine. Book appointments at least 10 days in advance for your pre – wedding beauty regimen, preferably at a spa you frequent. Make sure to include a stress – relieving massage to soothe those nerves.

Get lots of sleep the night before

“No matter what beauty regiment you go through in the days before your wedding, unless you’re well rested on the night before the big day, you will neither look nor feel your best,”. “The last thing you need is a headache putting a damper on your mood.” So the evening before your wedding should be a quite one – spend quality time with your family, eat a healthy meal and get at least eight hour of sound sleep. Eat something and use the washroom before the ceremony. You have got a long day ahead of you. Grab a healthy snack before you put on your makeup and use the washroom right before you head out to the mandap”

Focus on your husband – to – be

If, in spite of your best efforts, things get too chaotic, try this trick : “Every bride will have a moment of nerves, no matter how perfect everything around her is. It’s human nature. When this happened turned complete focus on my handsome fiancé and on the beautiful life we were about to embark upon together. My mind instantly quietened down and I had a lovely smile on my face that made me look even more fabulous in the pictures”. Maybe you could even give his friend a note to slip to your fiancé right before the ceremony. This could pep things up a bit for the two of you and help ease the stress too!

Life is full of surprises, particularly if you are a newly - wed . Expressjodi you a glimpse into the future and tells how to be prepared to face married life

Love is all about romance whereas marriage is a lot about responsibility. When two different individuals from different backgrounds live together, differences of opinion on things like spending habits, career, having and raising a baby, sharing household responsibilities etc, are bound to crop up, the key is to broaden your outlook and accept all the changes that marriage brings, and to remember that marriage is a momentous change for you and your spouse. And, fear not, over a period of time, you will find a way to make it work.

Responsibility

With marriage comes a whole lot of responsibility. "From the time you ger married, the decisions you make will not be yours alone, but your partner's as well. This is because your choices will impact both of you. But this doesn't mean that you're tied to a ball and chain. "It only means you have a companion with you for life. In fact, in your capacity as a spouse, you become your partner's caretaker, friend, confidante and even punching bag etc.

Finances

Arguments over money are bound to happen, so be prepared for it. And unless you establish some ground rules for dealing with financial issues, you will continue to have these arguments. Bear in mind that you are now a part of a unit, and no longer flying solo.

In - laws or outlaws?

if you thought that marriage is all about sharing your life with your significant other, think again, and this time, factor in your in - laws into the equation. When you're used to a particular lifestyle, moving in with your in - laws can be a rude shock. You will be required to make changes in your daily routine. Like waking up a little earlier to help around the house or rescheduling your plans on weekends or even modifying some of your eating habits. these might seem like an additional burden, particularly if you are a working woman. Remember to keep an open mind when it comes to handling your in - laws. They may be rigid in their ways, but there is always a way to work out a compromise.

Sharing space

Marriage involves sharing everything - whether it is sadness or glad tidings, chores or finance, which can be a difficult task. This is why marriage necessitates an equal contribution from both side. " Sharing is absolutely essential for a happy marriage,. Besides making it easier to run the show, it also brings you closer to your partner, and cement a bond in a way that only experience can.Differnces of opinion

Shaadi brings two different individuals together, as well as two sets of arguments for everything. Remember that your husband is as new to the marriage and the relationship as you, and he is facing the same issue for the first time as well.Irrespective of the nature of the relationship, any two people are bound to have differences of opinion at some point of time, It is how you handle these differences that mtters. The best antidote for deviant interest lies in adapting to the situation. "Be carteful not to retaliate for the sake of it,"

Planning for the future

As a single independent working woman, you may be used to your lifestyle, going on holidays or splurging on the latest pair of Jimmy Choos. But married life is a journey and you need to plan carefully to get to your destination. "Planning is the key. Make sure you and your husband are on the same page as far as long - term goal are concerned," "Whether or not you plan to have a baby or deciding on investments for the future and are thing that you should discuss in advbance, if you want to avoid unpleasant surprises in you married life,"

I was married to my husband for 10 years and we were both bless with three children, living together as one love, until 2012 when things was no longer the way the was [when he lost his job]. But when he later gets a new job 6 months after, he stated sleeping outside our matrimonial home. Only for me to find out that he was having an affair with the lady that gave he the job. since that day, when i called him, he don't longer pick up my calls and he nothing since to come out good. Yet my husbands just still keep on seeing the lady. Until I met a very good friend of my who was also having a similar problem, who introduced me to a very good love spell caster. But i told her that if it has to do with things that i am not interested, but she said that it has nothing to do with pay first. but the only thing he was ask to do was just to go and buy the items to cast the spell, and that was what she did. And she gave me the spell caster e-mail address and phone number. When i contacted him, supremespellcaster@gmail.com i was so surprise when he said that if i have the faith that i will get my husband back in the next three [3] day, and off which it was really so. but i was so shock that i did not pay any thing to prophet lord, but my husband was on his knells begging me and the children for forgiveness. This testimony is just the price i have to pay. This man Prophet lord is good and he is the author of my happiness. His e-mail address: supremespellcaster@gmail.com